Reply by Loren

In fine work I have found shoulder planes superior to rabbet planes in refining joints. That said, a very sharp chisel can work just as well and is faster if you have the skill to use it well.

The irons don’t shift in my side rabbet planes. Perhapsthe author only had experience with snipe bill planes andnot the machined metal ones. They are useful tools when you need them… but pretty much a professional’s tool as the need doesn’t come up much and the planes are an expedient to getting the work assembled and out the door.

I agree with him on the block planes and low-angle planes.I’ve found them not that useful. In carpentry a blockplane comes in handy in an apron pocket though.